Bone Density (QCT Densitometry)

Fractures of the legs and pelvis due to falls are a significant public health problem, especially in elderly women. Fractures may lead to high medical expenses, inability to live independently, and even risk of death.

Bone mineral density (BMD) is the amount of mineral matter per square centimeter of bones used as an indirect indicator of osteoporosis and risk of fracture. Quantitative Computed Tomography (QCT) Densitometry is a method to measure bone mass.

A bone desity scan is a painless, non-invasive low-dose x-ray which checks an area of the body (such as the hip, hand, or foot) for signs of mineral loss and bone thinning. Those measurements are compared to a database of normal individuals of your same age, sex, and race to determine whether you have lost bone density.

Bone density measurements help physicians detect the presence of osteoporosis, estimate your risk of bone fracture, and determine if you might benefit from treatment to improve bone strength. If you are being treated for bone loss, a follow-up QCT scan can show if the therapy is working.